The "Yellow Jacket" movement behind the demonstrations started on Nov. 17 as a social-media-organized protest group named for the high-visibility jackets all motorists in France must have in their cars.

It has focused on denouncing a squeeze on household spending brought about by President Emmanuel Macrons taxes on gas and diesel. The president says the increases are needed to combat climate change.

However, over the past three weeks the protests have evolved into a wider anti-Macron uprising, with many criticizing the president for pursuing policies they say favor the rich and do nothing to help the working poor.